COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Facilities Construction Commission on Thursday announced the approval of hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars to build new public schools across the state, including two in Northeast Ohio districts.
More than $42 million in state money will go towards construction of a new high school in Brunswick, while nearly $47 million has been earmarked for a new building in Fairport Harbor housing all kindergarten through 12th grade students. The funds are still pending a vote from the State Controlling Board.
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Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine released the following statement:
"OFCC's action today supports student success in local communities across the state. The investments being made in these schools will create safe, modern, and flexible learning environments that promote opportunities for academic excellence and prepare students for a successful future."
Both projects will also receive local taxpayer funding thanks to previously passed levies and bond issues, although the bulk of Brunswick's new school ($66.7 million) will be paid for by the city compared to less than 10% ($3.5 million) in the village of Fairport Harbor. Brunswick High opened back in 1967, while Harding High and McKinley Elementary in Fairport Harbor have been in use since 1921 and 1936, respectively.
"The condition of school facilities impact student achievement, as well as teacher engagement and satisfaction," OFCC Executive Director Cheryl J. Lyman said. "These schools will be designed and constructed using best practices and last for generations."
While planning for both projects is well underway, estimated completion dates have not been announced.